Santa Monica Monthly – March 2026

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Mortgage Rates Hold Near 6%, Improving Affordability

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Borrowing costs have been easing, and buyers are beginning to take notice. After a brief uptick earlier this week driven by geopolitical tensions and rising oil prices, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage remains near 6% after dipping to 5.98% last week, according to Freddie Mac.

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With rates close to their lowest levels in about three and a half years, affordability is improving and consumer sentiment is shifting. A recent HomeServe survey of roughly 1,000 U.S. adults found that 59% feel more optimistic about the housing market following last week’s rate drop, including 25% who feel “much more optimistic.”

Nadia Evangelou of the National Association of REALTORS® has called rates falling below 6% a key psychological and financial milestone. On a $400,000 home, current rates translate to an estimated $1,910 monthly payment, putting roughly $2,000 back in a buyer’s pocket annually compared with a year ago.

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Source: nar.realtor

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Food Obsession of the Month

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Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

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Cheesecake bars take indulgence to the next level. Perfectly portioned and endlessly versatile, they let you enjoy rich, creamy cheesecake without committing to a full slice. These cookie dough cheesecake bars are especially irresistible, featuring a chocolate chip cookie base and topping, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a simple chocolate drizzle for an extra touch of decadence. Easy to make and sure to please any crowd, they’re a dessert that delivers on flavor and presentation.

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Source: Delish